Like every great idea - this one started with blind ambition, endless optimism and a disused basement.

Ron Pynenburg and Ken Collins met at Victoria University while studying at the School of Architecture. As graduation approached and no firm plans for employment materialised, the friends thought they would start their own architectural practice. Conveniently there was a basement area under the garage to their flat, which was converted into an office in short order. “We had nothing to lose, and for some reason we thought nothing of giving it a go”, say Ron. “If we had realised what we were getting into I’m not sure we would have been so keen.”

The plan at the time was, “To have a play around and then go and do our OEs.” But fortunately for Ken and Ron, they never got that chance. “Looking back now we absolutely made the right decision. It has been a fantastic journey and we wouldn’t have done it any other way”.

Through a healthy mix of good luck and good management Ron and Ken continued to grow the business, not being afraid to take opportunities and innovate along the way. That can-do attitude is reflected in the variety of work the practice has done.

For three decades now, the team at Pynenburg and Collins have been building brilliant spaces from as far north as the Bay of Islands, and as far south as Antarctica.

Whether or not you know it, you’ve probably interacted with them in some way. From city to sea, Pynenburg & Collins can be found where Kiwis live, work, and play. Whether it’s a DOC hut, a rest home, a scientific facility, a church or someone’s home. More recently with Joanne Kelly and Jody Seabright joining Ron and Ken as Directors, that determination and flair that started the company is being taken forward into the future, with the same ethos and passion for creating Brilliant Architecture that enhances the way you live, work and play.